Richard C.
Richard C.
Contact for Boarding
from $75 per night
Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.
Highlights
Pet care experience
For dogs who crave adventure
I’m Ricky, a certified dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and owner of The Canine Explorer in Portland. I offer a calm, safe, and enriching boarding experience where dogs are treated like part of the family. With years of experience caring for dogs of all ages, sizes, and temperaments, I focus on creating a structured environment that helps dogs feel comfortable, confident, and cared for while their humans are away. Depending on your dog’s personality and needs, their stay may also include outdoor adventures, enrichment activities, trail walks, or river outings as an added bonus. My goal is simple: to give your dog a fun, loving, low stress home away from home.
Qualifications
Ratings and reviews
Ricky was fantastic with my dog! Lots of solo walks to fun places, and kept in touch with photos throughout her stay. I felt really comfortable leaving her with Ricky, and came back to a happy healthy dog. Would definitely rebook!
Highly recommend!!! I couldn't be happier with my experience! My dog, Mango, had the absolute best time. She went on so many fun adventures with Richard. I loved receiving daily updates along with amazing photos that showed how happy Mango was. Communication was excellent; I had complete peace of mind while I was away. Mango got so much love, attention, and exceptional care. I'm incredibly grateful and have already booked another adventurous stay! Thank you so much Richard!
Ricky helped us out during a family emergency and took Lucy in with very little notice. She was super stressed and shy but he could not have been more patient and caring. He gets the highest recommendation from everyone in the family!
Ricky was so wonderful with my shy shepherd mix and really helped him come out of his shell! He consistently kept me updated with the cutest pictures and videos. I can tell he is so passionate about what he does. Thank you thank you thank you a million times over for watching my pup while I was out of town :)
Ricky is absolutely incredible. I cannot recommend him enough to care for your doggo. I have very high standards when it comes to who I leave Kolbe with while I am away, and Ricky far exceeds them every time: He is an expert in dog training, goes above and beyond to make sure all dogs in his care are safe, not to mention Kolbe ADORES him and his dog. Trust me when I tell you that Ricky is the best there is.
Took great care of our pups, including giving meds, even though they can be a handful and one is pretty timid. Would recommend!!
Calendar and availability
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Schedule
Pet care is a core part of my daily routine. I run a dog adventure business, so my life revolves around pups! I build in breaks between group outings to check in on the dogs in my care, making sure they get plenty of love and one-on-one time. If there’s a spot available and you’re comfortable with it, your dog may even get to join me on a safe, supervised group adventures exploring trails, swimming spots, and having a blast outdoors!
Where your pet will stay
Home characteristics
Safety, trust & environment
At my home, dogs get a cozy, safe, and fun environment. I live downtown by the waterfront, so we have easy access to paved trails for daily walks and fresh air. Inside, I’ve got plenty of toys, dog beds, and cozy spots for relaxing. I can crate your pup if that’s part of their routine, and they’ll also have the company of my friendly resident dog for companionship. Whether it’s playtime or nap time, your dog will feel right at home.
Pets
A typical day
I love keeping dogs active, curious, and happy! We’ll go on neighborhood sniffari walks, explore parks and trails along the waterfront, and enjoy plenty of playtime with toys and games. If your dog enjoys a little extra adventure, and you’re comfortable with it, we might head to the river or hit a local hiking trail. I tailor activities to each pup’s personality and energy level, making sure they get the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.
Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.
Prices may vary based on your selections. A booking fee of 11% will apply.